The mass exodus continues for Ohio State as wide receiver Michael Thomas has declared himself for the NFL Draft. Thomas is regarded by most as one of, if not the top draft eligible wide receiver.

The number now stands at eight for Ohio State early enrollees for the 2016 NFL Draft.

First reported by Joe Schad of ESPN, Michael Thomas has declared himself for the draft, just four days after playing his final game as a Buckeye.

Thomas later posted a statement on his Twitter account saying his decision to leave was not an easy one.

“This was a very hard decision for honestly because I genuinely love Ohio State/Urban Meyer and everything this institution has to offer,” Thomas said. “It’s hard to say goodbye, but this is an opportunity of a lifetime I can’t pass up.

“And to #BuckeyeNation, you guys will be missed the most, the atmosphere you guys created both home and away I will chrish for the rest of my life.”

Thomas, a redshirt junior, graduated from Ohio State in December with a degree in sports industry.

Against Notre Dame in the 2016 Battlefrog Fiesta Bowl, Thomas tallied seven catches for 72 yards and a score to add to his team leading numbers.

Thomas led the Buckeyes in receptions the past two seasons and in 2015-2016 led Ohio State in receptions (56), receiving yards (781) and touchdown receptions (9).

With Thomas’ departure, the Buckeyes are waiting on just one more possible early enrollee in junior safety Vonn Bell. Bell is considered by many to be one of the top draft eligible players at his position.